I was a huge fan of Craig Reynolds' signature Mongoose frame a few years ago, and when he left, I highly doubted Mongoose would ever have another race frame that looked as good as that one did. But, after seeing Big Daddy's new ride, I have to admit, it's a pretty sweet-looking frame. Mongoose should be proud. I caught up with Eric and asked him a few questions about his new signature frame. Here's what he had to say:

How much input did you have in the new frame's design?
I had full input from lengths to angles to looks. Brian Baldis (at the Mongoose office) and I worked on this together for a while to come up with this beauty!

Do they include you on new product design or do you pretty much just race whatever you're given?
There have been times where I just race what I'm given, but there are also times where we put our heads together and come up with what we think will work best.

Is that going to be an aftermarket deal or is it just a one-off frame for you?
The Mongoose brand will offer race bikes in limited supply and this will be one of them.

If it is going to be production, any idea what it might cost?
This will be "frame only" and will run around $200.

Is the 24" going to follow the 20's design?
The 24" isn't done yet, but will look just like this one seppin' a bit bigga.

Is your signature frame all straight-gauge tubing or is any of it double-butted?
All straight gauge.

Any idea what the 20" frame weighs?
Right at 4 lbs.

Is it 6061 or 7005 aluminum?
7005.

Will it only be available in 21"?
If it came in any other size, then it wouldn't be my "signature frame." (Sorry for being a smart-ass.) Yes, just one size (laughter).

Is weight a big deal to you in a race frame?
Weight isn't so much a big deal to me in a frame as long as it's got the right angles and lengths. I'm more concerned with rolling weight, like wheels and tires.

Will you be on that frame the rest of the year or will you swap it out for a new one later in the season?
Well, if this year is anything like last, this frame will last all season. I do have another, just in case I need a backup.

White only?
Yes. Pearl white only. I thought it was a good choice. Was it?

Mongoose "Eric Rupe signature" Color: Pearl white
Top tube: 21"
Rear end: 15-1/2"
Bottom bracket height: 11-3/4"
Head tube angle: 73 degrees
Frame: Mongoose "Eric Rupe" Signature
Forks: Answer Carbon Pro
Headset: Chris King
Bars: ATI, pro
Stem: ATI
Grips: ATI Schwartz
Tires: Tioga Comp ST tires
Cranks: Profile 180 w/TI spindle & Evolution bottom bracket
Sprocket: Profile Imperial, 44t
Wheels: Sun rims w/Profile cassette hubs (16t cog)
Pedals: Shimano M424
Chain: Shimano IG
Brakes: Shimano Deore brakes & lever
Seat Post: Kore
Seat: Odyssey pro
Extras: ATI Vader pads and plate

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